Assam has taken another significant step toward modernising its tea sector with Don Bosco University (ADBU) and the Assam Tea Planters Association (ATPA) signing a MoU to strengthen research, innovation and sustainable development.
A new MoU aims to integrate advanced technologies like AI, quantum computing, GIS and drone systems into Assam’s tea sector to improve productivity, quality and welfare outcomes.

Key Highlights of the MoU

Collaborative Research

Focus on sustainable cultivation, climate-resilient practices and resource-efficient agriculture.

Advanced Technology Integration

• AI-driven quality analysis of tea leaves
• Quantum-enhanced analytics for better crop prediction
• GIS mapping & drone-based monitoring for plantations

Skill & Community Development

• Training and healthcare outreach for tea garden workers
• Upskilling in modern farming and technological practices

Industry–Academia Partnership

• Joint field studies
• Technology transfer and product diversification
• Energy-efficient tea processing solutions

ADBU’s R&D Cell showcased ongoing projects—especially quantum-based analytics and precision agriculture tools—aimed at transforming Assam’s globally renowned tea sector.
ATPA highlighted the need for modernisation and innovation to maintain Assam’s competitive edge in global markets and address challenges like climate variability, soil degradation and labour welfare.

Significance

Supports Doubling Farmers’ Income vision, National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture, and Start-Up India innovations.
Strengthens India’s largest tea-producing region through technology adoption, crucial for climate resilience.
Enhances industry–academia collaboration, a key recommendation in National Education Policy 2020.

Q. The recent MoU between Don Bosco University and Assam Tea Planters Association focuses on which of the following areas?

AI-driven tea quality analysis
Drone-based plantation monitoring
Quantum computing applications in agriculture
Coal mining technology advancement

Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only

Correct Answer: (b)